[Antennas] Opinions Please

[Kevin Nathan]

`Hi All,

I am currently using a Cushcraft A-3 beam at my QTH.  This is put up on a 50
foot tower among trees.  At the moment, I have a small branch of one tree
which touches the tip of the reflector at one point when I am rotating the
antenna.  I am wanting to replace this antenna with something which will
provide me with gain and directivity on the present three bands plus 17 and
12 meters.  I have personally reached the conclusion that a Lightning Bolt 2
element 5 band quad would give me what I want with a smaller turning radius
than I presently have.

But, before I make the investment, I would like to get some thoughts from
the list.  Are there any other beams out there with the same or slightly
smaller footprint as an A-3 which would give me all five bands with good
gain and front to side and front to back ratios?  Any other type of antenna
I ought to consider that would give me the things I want and fit into the
space I have?

Thanks so much for your thoughts.  Very 73.

Kevin :)
Amateur Radio:  K7RX
Navy Marine Corps MARS:  NNN0SHS